The Government of Andhra Pradesh is planning to roll out screening of kidney diseases using an Artificial Intelligence-powered mobile application backed by an international agency.

The Centre has also approved the pilot project under the National Health Mission (NHM). The project is expected to be implemented at Uddanam, A Konduru, and two mandals in Krishna and Guntur districts.

The startup Hellokidney.ai was the idea of nephrologist Dr Chinta Ramakrishna from Guntur. Dr. Ramakrishna researched hundreds of patients for about two years in association with international research institutions before creating an innovative solution. Senior officials of NHM and the state health department have now decided to unveil the pilot project.

"It is a technological innovation initiative to break barriers and close gaps in kidney care. It transforms kidney care in primary healthcare with digital technology, point-of-care testing, and clinical decision-aid tools. The project aims to redefine kidney health outcomes and save lives," Dr Ramakrishna said.

The product uses a mobile digital health application and point-of-care testing for creatinine estimation, estimated GFR, urine albumin/creatinine ratio, and subsequent risk stratification for KDIGO guideline-directed treatment with clinical decision-aid tools.